SUMMARY: LC 37 1861ER SB3/CSFA/2  The "Supporting and Strengthening Families Act."  Provides a means for parents to confer to another person (attorney-in-fact) the temporary authority to act on behalf of children without the time and expense of a court proceeding or the involvement of the Division of Family and Children Services.

REQUIREMENTS:

• the attorney-in-fact shall have the same rights, duties, and responsibilities that would otherwise be exercised by the parent
• such custody shall not exceed one year (certain exceptions provided: example: parents in armed forces) and parents may revoke for withdraw the power of attorney at any time
• powers that may not be conferred include marriage, abortion, adoption, or termination of parental rights to the child 
• parents that do not have custody of the child must be given written notice 30 days in advance of the execution of the power of attorney 
• the attorney-in-fact may
  • enroll the child in a public school, private school, or home study program serving the area where the attorney-in-fact lives (exception: the sole purpose for enrollment is participation in the academic or interscholastic athletic programs provided by that school)
  • seek emergency medical treatment for the child
  • exercise any other power and authority granted by the parent

EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon approval by the General Assembly and Governor.